The term "Gazite" refers to the inhabitants of Gaza, one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, located in the southwestern part of ancient Canaan, near the Mediterranean coast. Gaza was a significant city in biblical times, known for its strategic location and its role in various biblical narratives.

Biblical References:

1. Judges 16:1-3 : The most notable mention of the Gazites occurs in the account of Samson. "One day Samson went to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute and went in to spend the night with her. The Gazites were told, 'Samson is here!' So they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the city gate. They kept quiet all night, saying, 'Let us wait until dawn; then we will kill him.' But Samson lay there only until the middle of the night. Then he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate, along with the two gateposts, and pulled them out, bar and all. He lifted them onto his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron." This passage highlights the Gazites' awareness of Samson's presence and their intent to capture him, showcasing the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines.

2. Joshua 13:3 : Gaza is listed among the territories that remained to be conquered by the Israelites: "from the Shihor east of Egypt to the territory of Ekron to the north, all of it counted as Canaanite; the five Philistine rulers of Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron; the Avvites." This verse underscores Gaza's significance as a Philistine stronghold and its inclusion in the land promised to the Israelites.

3. 1 Samuel 6:17 : Gaza is mentioned in the context of the Philistine cities that returned the Ark of the Covenant to Israel: "As a guilt offering to the LORD, the Philistines sent back one gold tumor for each city: Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron." This reference indicates the city's involvement in the Philistine confederation and its participation in the events surrounding the Ark.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Gaza was a major city in the Philistine pentapolis, a group of five cities that included Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron. The Philistines were known for their advanced culture and military prowess, often coming into conflict with the Israelites. Gaza's location made it a vital trade and military hub, contributing to its prominence in the region.

The Gazites, as Philistines, were part of a people who worshiped deities such as Dagon and Baal, which often put them at odds with the monotheistic worship of Yahweh by the Israelites. The tension between the two groups is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, with Gaza frequently serving as a backdrop for these interactions.

Archaeological Insights:

Modern archaeological excavations in the region of ancient Gaza have uncovered artifacts and structures that provide insight into the city's historical significance. These findings include remnants of fortifications, pottery, and inscriptions that attest to the city's role as a center of Philistine culture and power.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the narratives involving Gaza and the Gazites illustrate the broader theme of the struggle between the Israelites and the surrounding nations. The accounts of Samson and the Ark of the Covenant highlight God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises to Israel, despite the challenges posed by formidable adversaries like the Philistines.

In summary, the Gazites, as inhabitants of a key Philistine city, played a significant role in the biblical history of Israel, serving as both adversaries and instruments in the unfolding of God's divine plan.5841. Azzathi -- inhab. of Gaza
... inhab. of Gaza. Transliteration: Azzathi Phonetic Spelling: (az-zaw-thee') Short
Definition: Gazite. ... of Gaza NASB Word Usage Gazite (1), Gazites (1). ...
/hebrew/5841.htm - 6kGazite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gazite (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:3 from the Shihor,
which is before Egypt, even to the border of Ekron ...
/g/gazite.htm - 6k

Gazing-stock (2 Occurrences)
Gazing-stock. Gazingstock, Gazing-stock. Gazite . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ...
(ASV WBS). Gazingstock, Gazing-stock. Gazite . Reference Bible.
/g/gazing-stock.htm - 9k

Gazites (2 Occurrences)

/g/gazites.htm - 7k

Ash'kelon (10 Occurrences)
... which is before Egypt, even unto the border of Ekron northward--which is counted
to the Canaanites; the five lords of the Philistines: the Gazite, and the ...
/a/ash'kelon.htm - 9k

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